Victoria’s peak health promotion agency has invited arts and cultural organisations across the state to produce creative new ways to get communities physically active and socially connected through participating in art.

Following the success of seven unique projects funded under its original MOTION program, VicHealth invites arts and cultural organisations to apply for grants of up to $70,000. Successful projects will run over 15 months, beginning in April 2013.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said the MOTION Program was created to promote the health benefits of arts activities that increase physical activity, build social connection and improve mental health and wellbeing.

“MOTION is an exciting program which is all about improving people’s health by giving them opportunities to get creative, physically active and involved in their local community through the arts,” Ms Rechter said.

“Being physically active doesn’t always have to be focused around being a member of a local sports club. MOTION is an initiative for everyone. It’s a fantastic opportunity for talented artists to really use their imaginations and help to improve the health of all Victorians.”

Last year’s MOTION projects included a giant musical instrument activated by human movement, and children and their parents tangling kilometres of colourful elastic into a massive web to get lost in. Projects engaged people across Melbourne city and regional Victoria.

Ms Rechter added that regular physical activity protects against illness, improves mental health and alertness and increases resilience against stress, anxiety and depression.

“Physical activity is ranked second only to tobacco control as the most important factor in disease prevention in Australia,” she said.

“Increasingly, research indicates that people who are socially isolated are more likely to have poor mental health, lower self-esteem and higher rates of mortality. So, a combination of art and physical activity really does improve your health.”

“This year MOTION will have a stronger focus on strategic partnerships and creating models of arts participation that can be replicated and sustained into the future. We want more people physically active through art and we want them to keep this up throughout their lives.”

Applications will only be accepted from arts and cultural organisations with a demonstrated track record of providing activity within the community. Projects that target under-represented members of our community such as Aboriginal Victorians, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, people with a disability, amongst others will be highly regarded.

Applications close 2pm Thursday 21 February 2013.

VicHealth will be holding a briefing session about MOTION at 4pm, Thursday 13 December, at VicHealth 15-31 Pelham Street Carlton. RSVPs required, email [email protected]

ENDS